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Two extraordinary works by British photographer Frederick H. Evans are captured in this image from an exhibition at The Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. Displayed side-by-side, the silver bromide print Albi Cathedral France – Choir Ambulatory and the photogravure La Maison Bourgtheroulde offer a poetic meditation on architecture, light, and time.
Frederick H. Evans (1853–1943) is widely recognized as one of the foremost architectural photographers of the Pictorialist movement. His work is marked by a deep sensitivity to natural light and a spiritual reverence for sacred spaces. Here, the left photograph—Albi Cathedral France – Choir Ambulatory—draws the viewer into the tranquil hush of a gothic interior. Shafts of sunlight stream across the stone floor, illuminating carved columns and gothic arches in a study of divine geometry. The composition is masterful: Evans frames the space in such a way that it feels both expansive and intimate, inviting the eye to wander quietly through shadow and glow.
To the right, La Maison Bourgtheroulde shifts the focus to the exterior of a Renaissance mansion in Rouen, France. In contrast to the soft interior of the cathedral, this image presents a proud and intricate façade with sculpted ornamentation, turrets, and finely carved details. Evans’ use of photogravure—a process prized for its tonal richness—renders the textures of the stone and the layers of architectural history with clarity and gravitas. This is not just a document of a building; it is a portrait of place and permanence.
Together, these two prints represent Evans’ dual interest in the spiritual interior and the civic exterior—spaces built for different forms of reverence. The gallery’s lighting and neutral gray walls accentuate the tonal subtleties of the black-and-white prints, allowing Evans’ mastery of light and shadow to take center stage. The labels below the frames identify both works as gifts from Kent and Marcia Minichiello in 2015, a generous donation that enriches The Phillips Collection's holdings of early photography.
Evans, who abandoned commercial photography in favor of artistic pursuit, was a pioneer in advocating for photography as a legitimate art form. His refusal to retouch negatives and his meticulous printing process speak to his dedication to truth and clarity in his work. He famously declared he wanted his images to be "a record of the spirit of the place," and both pieces here live up to that ambition.
Photographing these two prints together honors Evans' legacy and invites reflection on how photography captures more than architecture—it captures atmosphere, intention, and emotion. Whether you're a fan of early photography, architectural detail, or the quiet resonance of historic places, this pairing offers a glimpse into the meditative beauty of Evans’ vision.
Dramatic light highlights the architecture of Prague, from the Gothic Our Lady before Tyn church to the infamous Communist broadcasting tower.
Prague has been a political, cultural, and economic centre of central Europe with waxing and waning fortunes during its 1,100-year existence. Founded during the Romanesque and flourishing by the Gothic and Renaissance eras, Prague was not only the capital of the Czech state, but also the seat of two Holy Roman Emperors.
The Dallas County Courthouse was constructed in 1892 in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. It is on the National Register of Historic Places #76002019.
The Gulf Building (front) was constructed in 1929 and was designed by Alfred C. Finn, Kenneth Franzheim, and J. E. R. Carpenter. The Pennzoil Place was constructed in 1975 and was designed by esigned by Philip Johnson and John Burgee. The Gulf Building is on the National Register of Historic Places #83004436.
The old Maricopa County Courthouse was constructed in 1925 and was designed by Lescher and Mahoney. The Maricopa County Courthouse is on the National Register #88003237.
This golden-hour view down Massachusetts Avenue NW in Washington, D.C.’s Embassy Row offers a striking contrast between eras: on the left, ornate Gilded Age mansions with turrets and stone façades; on the right, the minimalist glass-and-brick geometry of a mid-century modern federal building. It’s a visual dialogue that defines the city’s architectural DNA—where historic preservation and civic functionality meet face-to-face.
In the foreground, late 19th-century Romanesque Revival and Beaux-Arts townhouses exude character with arched windows, rusticated stone bases, and detailed brickwork. Many of these buildings now serve as embassies, think tanks, or private cultural institutions. Their craftsmanship remains evident, even under the bare branches of winter trees. The turreted structure with dark stone is especially notable for its depth and texture, anchoring this block with timeless presence.
Further down the avenue, the sleek lines of a modernist government or office building reflect the sunset in warm amber tones, amplifying the street’s golden warmth and hinting at Washington’s balance between heritage and functionality. Streetlights are just starting to glow, and a few pedestrians add life to the corridor—an everyday snapshot of one of the city's most prestigious boulevards.
This stretch of Massachusetts Avenue captures the architectural and civic soul of the nation's capital, where history is literally built into the street.
Framed by the cool blue of the Bay and a sky streaked with summer fog, the iconic Ferry Building stands proudly at the edge of San Francisco’s Embarcadero. Its recognizable clocktower rises above a bustling terminal that has served the city since 1898, a Beaux-Arts gem that once greeted arriving ferry passengers before the bridges came. Today, it anchors a modern culinary marketplace while remaining a symbol of civic resilience and waterfront revival. Behind it, the layered skyline of the Financial District looms with architectural diversity—from the sleek Salesforce Tower and angular 181 Fremont to the pointed spire of the Transamerica Pyramid, peeking through like a familiar friend. The juxtaposition of historic and modern speaks to San Francisco’s ever-shifting identity—rooted in history, yet driven by innovation. A seagull glides through the frame overhead, adding motion and life to a scene that is quintessentially San Francisco. Whether seen from a ferry or from across the water, this view evokes a feeling of arrival, of being at the gateway to a city that’s both beautiful and unpredictable.
Rikugien Gardens stands as an oasis of tranquility amid the modern Tokyo skyline. Designed during the Edo period (1700s) under the patronage of Tokugawa shogun Tsunayoshi, this exquisite garden reflects the poetic spirit of its era. Its name, “Rikugien,” refers to the "six divisions of poetry," as it artfully recreates 88 scenic spots from classic waka poems. Surrounded by the urban energy of Tokyo, the garden offers a unique juxtaposition of lush greenery and contemporary architecture visible in the background.
The centerpiece of Rikugien is its expansive central pond, bordered by meticulously trimmed pines and ornamental stones. Meandering pathways guide visitors through verdant landscapes, unveiling hidden teahouses, serene bridges, and dramatic viewpoints of the garden’s natural and architectural elements. Notable features include the man-made hills, symbolizing Japan's mountainous terrain, and reflective ponds that mirror both the traditional garden and the striking modern skyline beyond.
This garden masterfully balances Edo-period principles of design—embracing asymmetry, subtlety, and seasonal change—with a timeless aesthetic that continues to inspire. Seasonal highlights include delicate cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant red maples in autumn, drawing locals and travelers alike.
Rikugien’s appeal is not just its beauty but also its ability to transport visitors into a historic moment while surrounded by the rhythm of a modern city. This dynamic blend of past and present makes it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts exploring Tokyo.
The Tokyo skyline is a breathtaking mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional architecture, and lush green spaces, embodying the dynamic essence of Japan’s capital city. This panoramic view showcases the city's architectural marvels, including the iconic NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building. Towering at 240 meters, this neo-Gothic skyscraper evokes a timeless grandeur, serving as a focal point amidst Tokyo's cutting-edge urban design. Built in 2000, it stands as one of the tallest structures in Japan, housing communication hubs and a clock tower that adds character to its sleek profile.
In the distance, the skyline highlights Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s busiest and most vibrant districts, renowned for its mix of towering office buildings and entertainment hubs. On the horizon, you can spot Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, exemplifying the city’s commitment to integrating modernity with green spaces and public amenities. The lush expanse of Yoyogi Park punctuates the view, offering a serene contrast to the bustling cityscape—a perfect retreat for residents and visitors alike.
Tokyo’s skyline is a testament to the city’s post-war resurgence and its evolution into a global powerhouse. From the meticulously designed urban grids to the awe-inspiring skyscrapers, the view reflects Tokyo's harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and resilience. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a casual observer, the Tokyo skyline provides a unique perspective on one of the world’s most fascinating metropolises.
Welcome to the bustling streets of San Francisco, California. This image captures a vibrant street scene that highlights the city's architectural diversity. Dominating the foreground is the LUMA Hotel Mission Bay, a sleek modern building with a white and gray facade, featuring a grid of windows and a unique rooftop structure. This contemporary design stands in contrast to the older brick buildings on the left, showcasing San Francisco's blend of old and new.
Palm trees line the street, adding a touch of greenery to the urban landscape and hinting at the city's temperate climate. In the background, more high-rise buildings are visible, creating a dynamic skyline. A glimpse of a bridge structure peeks through, reminding us of San Francisco's iconic bridges that connect various parts of the city.
The street is relatively quiet, with a few cars and traffic lights visible, suggesting either an early morning or late afternoon snapshot. This mix of architecture, from the historic brick buildings to the modern high-rises, reflects the city's rich history and its continuous evolution. San Francisco is a city where tradition meets innovation, creating a unique and ever-changing urban environment.
This scene perfectly encapsulates the essence of San Francisco—a place where diverse architectural styles coexist, and urban development is balanced with natural beauty. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a casual observer, the city's skyline offers something intriguing at every turn.
The Customhouse and Post Office was designed by Alfred Mullett in 1873. It is one of two surviving Federal buildings by Mullett. The other one is the Old Executive Office Building next to the White House. You can't see it from this perspective, but there is a large domed portion on the other side of the building.
This building's adaptive reuse was part of a huge controversy between the Landmarks Association of St Louis and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Basically the developers interested in the adaptive reuse of the Old Post Office wanted to demolish the historic Century Building for a parking structure (which is what eventually happened). The National Trust sided with the developers horror, and the Century Building came tumbling down.
The Customhouse and Post Office (Old Post Office) is on the National Register #68000053, and it is also a National Historic Landmark.
The Philadelphia City Hall was designed by John McArthur, Jr. in the Second Empire style. Construction began in 1871 and finished in 1901. It is on the National Register #76001666, and also a National Historic Landmark and is contrasted by the Municipal Services Building was designed by Vincent G. Kling and Associates in 1962.
Undulating curves of golden Kasota limestone greet visitors at the entrance of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, a bold architectural statement on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This photo captures the museum’s sinuous façade and sweeping canopy—an homage to natural rock formations shaped by wind and water. Opened in 2004 and designed by Douglas Cardinal (Blackfoot/Algonquin) in collaboration with Johnpaul Jones (Cherokee/Choctaw) and the firm Jones & Jones, the building is the first Smithsonian museum dedicated solely to Native American heritage—and the first to be designed by Indigenous architects.
Rather than adopting neoclassical or Brutalist tropes common to federal buildings, the design draws from Native philosophies and relationships to land, light, and ceremony. The absence of straight lines echoes the belief that nature itself is curvilinear, flowing, alive. The main entrance faces the rising sun, in alignment with spiritual traditions. The textured limestone, quarried in Minnesota, exudes warmth and seems to ripple across the building’s surface like layers of sediment or memory.
The museum was envisioned as more than a place to view artifacts—it’s a cultural hub where Native voices are centered. Exhibits are developed in collaboration with Indigenous communities, and the museum hosts festivals, talks, and performances celebrating Native resilience and storytelling.
In this image, the interplay of organic forms and architectural precision is striking. Glass curtain walls arc inward and outward, blurring the threshold between built environment and the natural world. The overhang above the entrance shields visitors in a welcoming gesture, like a canyon alcove or the arms of a sheltering ancestor.
Set against the urban geometry of Washington, D.C., the building offers a tactile, poetic contrast. It reminds us that Indigenous cultures are not relics of the past but vibrant contributors to the present and future. Through both its content and its form, the National Museum of the American Indian asserts presence, sovereignty, and continuity.
Jonathan Williams began construction of Castle Williams in 1807 and was completed in 1811 - It's a three level 100 gun casemate. It was the first casemated fort in North America. It was part of a larger system of forts such as Fort Wood, Fort Hamilton,and Castle Clinton protecting New York Harbor and New York City.
The northern half of Governor's Island is a National Register historic district #85002435. It's also a National Historic Landmark. The National Park Service runs Castle Williams and Fort Jay as a National Monument.
Salesforce Tower, a defining element of San Francisco’s skyline, takes on a whole new personality at night. Standing at 1,070 feet, it’s not just the tallest building in the city, but an architectural beacon that has reshaped the urban landscape since its completion in 2018. Designed by César Pelli, the tower is a sleek blend of glass and steel, tapering as it rises, evoking a minimalist yet commanding presence. What sets Salesforce Tower apart at night is the 11,000 LED light installation at its crown—created by artist Jim Campbell. Dubbed “Day for Night,” this dynamic artwork transforms the top of the building into a mesmerizing canvas, shifting images and patterns that are visible from miles away.
The tower’s design is as forward-thinking as its functionality. With environmental sustainability at its core, it’s LEED Platinum certified, reflecting Salesforce’s commitment to innovation and responsibility. The building is designed to maximize natural light, while its advanced water recycling system conserves resources—a true marriage of cutting-edge tech and eco-conscious design.
At night, the surrounding urban environment also comes alive. The area pulses with energy, from the shimmering reflections of nearby towers like 181 Fremont to the illuminated streets below, where a blend of historic and modern buildings create an architectural contrast. Whether you’re gazing up from the Embarcadero or catching a glimpse from the Bay Bridge, Salesforce Tower is a must-see at night, offering an unforgettable perspective of San Francisco’s tech-driven skyline.
This photograph captures a nostalgic slice of urban Japan, showcasing the textured layers of a vintage shopfront and apartment balcony that speak volumes about the city’s evolving architectural story. The faded signage in traditional kanji, hand-painted on weathered surfaces, hints at a once-busy local business—perhaps a hardware store or tool shop, as suggested by the old-school lettering and visible tools.
Above the storefront, a sun-worn balcony draped in drying laundry and shaded by a bright yellow awning reveals a lived-in domestic space, common in mid-20th century Japanese mixed-use buildings. This juxtaposition of commercial and residential life is a hallmark of Showa-era architecture, when maximizing space and utility in Japan's dense urban environments was essential.
The structure’s oxidized copper panels and rusted metal framework tell a quiet tale of time’s passage—materials once pristine now softened by age and weather. These patinated textures, combined with the quirky asymmetry of laundry lines and potted plants, offer a rare, intimate look into everyday life in Japan, far from tourist trails.
Below, a bright green modern awning has been added, contrasting sharply with the vintage facade above—a visual metaphor for Japan itself: constantly balancing modern updates with deep respect for its past. This layered scene is not just an architectural curiosity, but a love letter to working-class neighborhoods, where community, resilience, and daily ritual are preserved in every detail.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, urban explorer, or cultural photographer, this corner storefront is a rich subject of visual storytelling, capturing the essence of Japan’s endearing messiness, quiet dignity, and everyday beauty.
The Reliance Building was designed by John Root (basement and first floor) in 1890 and Charles Atwood for the rest in 1895 (it's complicated). The terra cotta cornice (removed in 1948) was restored in 1999. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places #70000237, in the Loop Retail Historic District #98001351, and also a National Historic Landmark.
Part of the Azabudai Hills complex in Tokyo, Japan, this building showcases a refined approach to urban architecture. Its rounded vertical panels and golden-bronze facade create a striking interplay of light and shadow, adding depth and character to the structure. The building is seamlessly integrated into its surroundings, with a tiered base that connects to the pedestrian-friendly spaces of this mixed-use development. The metallic finish contrasts beautifully with the glass-and-steel skyscrapers nearby, emphasizing material diversity within Tokyo’s skyline.
Designed as a key element of Azabudai Hills, this structure reflects the complex’s emphasis on blending aesthetics with functionality. The accessible pathways and landscaped areas surrounding the building highlight a commitment to inclusive and thoughtful urban planning. The facade’s dynamic surface evolves throughout the day, capturing the essence of Tokyo’s ever-changing light and energy. As a part of one of the city’s newest and most ambitious redevelopment projects, this building exemplifies the forward-thinking design and attention to detail that define the Azabudai Hills complex.
Caught in a quiet moment, the square is a blend of old and new. The imposing fort walls, steeped in history, stand guard over a modern sculpture that twists towards the sky, creating a dialogue between past and present. It's a place where the flags flutter above and life moves at a slower pace, inviting reflection.
This photograph captures the monumental architecture of the Federal Triangle in Washington, D.C., as seen from the plaza between the U.S. Department of Commerce (left) and the Federal Trade Commission headquarters (right). The curved façades, classical columns, and limestone cladding reflect the Neoclassical and Beaux-Arts styles that define much of the Federal Triangle—a historic area encompassing key government buildings built primarily in the 1930s.
To the left, the Herbert C. Hoover Building houses the U.S. Department of Commerce. Its inscription on the frieze—listing services like money orders and savings bonds—underscores the department’s broad economic influence. The building's Corinthian columns, symmetry, and monumental scale evoke democratic ideals and public service.
To the right is the apex of the Federal Trade Commission, an elegantly curved structure with a more restrained but equally powerful Classical Revival design. Visible in the plaza is Bearing Witness, a dark abstract sculpture by Martin Puryear. To the left, Federal Triangle Flowers by Stephen Robin adds a dynamic contrast with its large aluminum floral forms emerging from the fountain.
This central courtyard forms a symbolic and functional passage between government institutions and serves as a public space in the heart of D.C. Shot on an overcast day, the subdued lighting enhances the gray tones of the stone, allowing architectural details and symmetry to shine.
Documented according to standards of the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS):
Structure Name: Herbert C. Hoover Building / Federal Triangle
Location: 14th Street NW, between Constitution Ave and Pennsylvania Ave, Washington, D.C.
Style: Neoclassical / Beaux-Arts
Date of Construction: 1932 (Commerce Building); 1938 (FTC Building)
Architects: Louis Ayres (Commerce), Bennett, Parsons & Frost (FTC)
HABS Reference Numbers: DC-354, DC-678
Rincon Hill, one of San Francisco's most historic neighborhoods, offers a rich tapestry of architectural styles that narrate the city's evolution. This area juxtaposes early 20th-century brick warehouses with sleek, contemporary high-rises. The iconic Salesforce Tower looms in the background, representing the modern tech-driven cityscape, while the classic brick facades of older buildings hint at a bygone industrial era. This blend of old and new creates a visually captivating skyline that captures San Francisco's dynamic spirit. Notably, the area's redevelopment has been guided by principles that preserve historical elements while accommodating cutting-edge designs. The neighborhood's architectural diversity and proximity to the Bay make it a fascinating study in urban adaptation, embodying the juxtaposition of heritage and innovation that defines San Francisco's unique architectural identity.
2020.08.26 - A wide range of building styles here.. Olympic Stadium (Ribbed roof) itself, the Biodome (Glass roof) in the background and the Montreal Planetarium (Silver domes) up front & finally the Centre Pierre Charbonneau (slanted roof on the left). Out of sight behind me to the right is Saputo Stadium as well.
Government Service Center (Paul Rudolph, 1963) on the left and One Bowdoin Square (Graham Gund, 1989) on the right.
Explore the captivating blend of old and new in this vibrant corner of Tokyo. The scene captures a harmonious mix of modern architecture, traditional influences, and the lively energy of daily life. The rust-toned building on the left exudes a retro charm, a reminder of mid-20th century urban design that contrasts beautifully with the sleek, minimalist gray structures nearby. This juxtaposition is quintessential Tokyo—where history coexists with the future at every turn.
Notice the lush greenery in the background, hinting at Tokyo's ability to seamlessly integrate nature into its urban fabric. This area is an ideal spot for those who appreciate the subtleties of Japanese city planning, where wide pedestrian-friendly sidewalks invite exploration and thoughtful details like umbrella-covered benches create spaces for relaxation.
On the right, a vibrant green sign advertising matcha sweets beckons visitors with the promise of traditional Japanese flavors, a reminder of the city’s deep culinary heritage. Shops and stalls like these are scattered throughout Tokyo, offering everything from artisanal snacks to modern takes on classic recipes.
Whether you're here to stroll the streets, savor authentic matcha treats, or simply observe Tokyo’s unique rhythm, this area encapsulates the city’s spirit: a dynamic blend of innovation, tradition, and community.
Bare winter branches weave a delicate lace in the foreground, framing the timeless dome of Saint Isaac’s Cathedral.
This image is a quiet dialogue between nature and architecture — one ephemeral, the other eternal.
The stark silhouettes hint at transience, while the golden dome holds the city’s enduring spirit.
Голые зимние ветви сплетаются в тонкое кружево, обрамляя купол Исаакиевского собора.
Это безмолвный диалог природы и архитектуры — одного мимолётного, другого вечного.
Силуэты веток напоминают о скоротечности, а позолоченный купол удерживает дух Петербурга сквозь века.
This layered cityscape of San Francisco captures the architectural diversity and vertical drama of the Cathedral Hill and Lower Pacific Heights neighborhoods. In the foreground, we see a modernist apartment building with a sleek, gray-toned façade and clean-lined bay windows. Its horizontal rhythm and sharp geometry reflect mid-century and contemporary design trends, framed with a subtle cantilevered red awning.
But what truly commands attention is the richly ornamented brick high-rise in the background. With its elaborate cornice, white terra cotta trim, and bold window framing, the building exemplifies early 20th-century apartment house design—part Beaux-Arts, part Spanish Colonial Revival, and unmistakably San Franciscan. Set at a corner, the structure stands as a historic anchor amid more recent development, offering a tactile sense of the city’s architectural evolution.
This portion of Geary Boulevard, known for its steep grade and mix of residential and civic buildings, reveals the layering of time that defines much of San Francisco. The angled late-morning light casts dramatic shadows along the façades, highlighting decorative moldings and the crisp rhythm of windows and balconies.
A wide-angle lens captures the contrast in style and scale, making this image a study in architectural juxtaposition: minimalism meets ornament, soft shadows meet bright stucco, and early-century grandeur meets contemporary restraint. For lovers of urban form and light-play, this is a quintessential San Francisco moment.
A black and white capture of the intricate interplay between multiple high-rise buildings in an urban setting located in the Calle 50 at Panama City. The image emphasizes the contrasting architectural styles, from the reflective surfaces to the geometric patterns, all converging under the city's glowing lights.
At the corner of Washington and Stockton Streets, the Chinese United Methodist Church fuses restrained neoclassical symmetry with a distinctive East Asian silhouette. Its stuccoed façade and deep cornices evoke early 20th-century American institutional design, while the gold-tipped, pagoda-style cupola affirms its cultural identity. The contrast between minimal ornamentation and bold roofline symbolism reflects the church’s mission: rooted in faith, shaped by community, and grounded in bicultural expression. Originally built in 1911, this church has long served as a spiritual and social anchor for Chinese Americans in San Francisco, its architecture quietly honoring both Methodist tradition and Chinese heritage.
The Jewelers' Building was designed by Joachim G. Giaver and Frederick P. Dinkelberg and opened in 1927. It is part of the Michigan–Wacker Historic District which is on the National Register of Historic Places #78001124.
A clear view of Kawasaki's urban plaza reveals a harmonious blend of modern art and architectural marvels. The sleek sculptures and traditional brick textures contrast beautifully with the clean lines of contemporary buildings, all while the presence of passersby infuses a vibrant energy into this tranquil setting.
Nikon TW Zoom 35-80
Kodak Ultra Max 400
The modern Selfridges building contrasted against the historical St Martins Church.
The Selfridges Building is a landmark building in Birmingham, England. The building is part of the Bullring Shopping Centre and houses Selfridges Department Store. The building was completed in 2003 at a cost of £60 million and designed by architecture firm Future Systems. It has a steel framework with sprayed concrete facade. Since its construction the building has become an iconic architectural landmark and seen as a major contribution to the regeneration of Birmingham.
The John J. Glessner House, operated as the Glessner House Museum, was designed by Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in late 1887. John Glessner was a partner in the firm of Warder, Bushnell & Glessner, a farm machinery manufacturer headquartered in Springfield, Ohio. He and his wife moved to Chicago in 1870 where he opened a branch office. In 1902, the firm and four others, including firms controlled by J. P. Morgan, Cyrus McCormick, and James Deering, merged to form International Harvester. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places #70000233, and also is a National Historic Landmark. It is also in the Prairie Avenue Historic District which is also on the National Register of Historic Places #72000452.
The More London Complex reflects off the wet paving on an empty Boxing Day morning in London.
More London is a new development on the south bank of the River Thames, immediately south-west of Tower Bridge in London. It includes the City Hall, a sunken amphitheatre called The Scoop, office blocks, shops, restaurants, cafes, and a pedestrianized area containing open-air sculptures and water features, including fountains lit by coloured lights.
Traffic streaks past the unique structure known as the Dancing House in Prague.
The Dancing House is the nickname given to the Nationale-Nederlanden building in Prague, Czech Republic. It was designed by the Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić in co-operation with the renowned Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry. The house stands out among the Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings for which Prague is famous.
Cornice detail at the top of the Peoples Gas Light and Coke Company building at the northwest corner of Adams and Michigan in Chicago, Illinois. The building was designed by the D.H. Burnham Company and opened in 1911. It is on the National Register of Historic Places #84000293.
Could this have been a skyroom restaurant addition? It's a pretty strange addition to a 1920s skyscraper. The penthouse was designed by I.M. Pei in 1975. The building is on the National Register #79000744, and is also located in the Augusta Downtown Historic District #04000515.
From here:
The penthouse costs more than $2 million; Augustans call it "Holley's Folly" and the "giant toaster." B. Kelley New, the Lamar Building's interior designer and a former employee of Mr. Holley, said the misunderstood penthouse was supposed to resemble a pyramid to go along with the Egyptian influences in the building's architecture.
The cupola of the Niels Esperson Building is in the foreground with Pei's Texas Commerce Tower in the background. The Esperson was designed by John Eberson and opened in 1927. The Texas Commerce Building was designed by I.M. Pei and opened in 1981.
Designed by Adler and Sullivan and is considered one of the world's first skyscrapers with a steel frame and curtainwall. It opened in 1891. This is now a State of Missouri Office Building. The Wainwright Building is on the National Register of Historic Places #68000054, and is also a National Historic Landmark.
The Empire State Plaza was the idea of then governor Nelson Rockefeller. It was designed by Harrison and Abramovitz and was constructed from 1965 to 1976. Rockefeller reportedly doodled his ideas on a napkin incorporating elements from Brasilia and Chandrigahr. As was typical for urban renewal efforts of the era, an entire neighborhood was destroyed and rebuilt from the ground up. The focus of the development was the plaza itself were the buildings are situated along an axis emanating from the 1860s Romanesque Revival capitol building. The capitol building was constructed from 1860 and finally finished in 1899. A series of different architects worked on the building giving it it's mixture of Renaissance Revival and Romanesque Revival elements. The capitol is on the National Register of Historic Places #71000519, part of the Lafayette Park historic district which is also on the NRHP #78001837, and also a National Historic Landmark. Empire State Plaza is not yet on the NRHP.